On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of India as you celebrate your Independence Day on August 15.

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the United States Congress this past June, he remarked that “the traits of freedom and liberty form a strong bond between our two democracies.” It is worth remembering this today as India celebrates its independence.

As India celebrates Independence Day, we recommit to working to ensure freedom and justice for all within our great democracies.